Slippery Elm, Sweet Elm, Ulmus fulva, Ulmus rubra
A pleasant tasting way to settle an acidic or irritated stomach, aid constipation, and diarrhoea, and to reduce symptoms of GORD, reflux, and stomach cramps. It’s also a helpful hack before consuming alcohol, as it helps line the intestines, reducing irritation and subsequent symptoms.
Slippery Elm bark powder is a traditional ‘mucilaginous’ remedy, which has a soothing effect on the digestive system and may help to soothe an irritated or unsettled stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Mucilage is a complex mixture of polysaccharides extracted as viscous or gelatinous fibre. It’s high fibre content also helps keep you fuller for longer, reducing the urge to snack.
Slippery Elm is considered a bulking laxative as the mucilage absorbs water. The result of this is that it swells in the intestine, helping to initiate a bowel movement. It is important to drink plenty of water, especially if using it for this effect. Slippery Elm bark can also be used as a soothing demulcent to the digestive tract and can relieve both constipation and diarrhoea.
The slippery elm is a medium-sized tree native to North America. For medicinal purposes, the inner bark is dried and powdered.
Slippery elm tea is an easy way to consume this herb. However if you prefer it can also be blended into smoothies or mixed into yoghurt. The advantage of these latter too strategies is that it makes it easier to consume higher quantities (1-2 tablespoons can easily be achieved).
To download a print a copy of my slippery elm tea recipe then simply click on the image below and you’re good to go!
